Kneeling in front of a wheelchair-bound patient, Dr. Timothy Herbst would have to shine a light and peer up into an often uncomfortably-postured mouth to do even routine procedures like cleanings and examinations.

It was uncomfortable for the patient and many times would serve as a barrier for patients with developmental diseases or who are wheelchair-bound to getting adequate dental care, Herbst said Tuesday as he introduced the Northeast Missouri Health Council’s wheelchair-tilting device as part of its new dental clinic.

The lift is designed to help combat the difficultly wheelchair-bound patients can encounter, either with trying to maneuver into a standard dental chair or having to undergo procedures while seated.

“With this we can get to a supine position so we can get a good look. That’s pretty much where we’d have a patient in a regular dental chair,” Herbst said as he demonstrated how far back the device tilts.

Providing secure support, the lift is designed to allow virtually any wheelchair and patient to recline nearly to a laying down position, providing for easier access for dental cleanings, examinations, x-rays and procedures.

“It’s a difficult problem, to get work done while in a wheelchair,” Herbst said. “This makes it better, more accessible and better for all of us.”

The chair is designed to lift and tilt up to 1,250 pounds allowing for the heavier, motorized wheelchairs to roll right up.

“Even the folks with the most complex wheelchair with the batteries, it will be able to handle that,” said Andy Grimm, chief executive officer of the Northeast Missouri Health Council.

The Council recently completed a $4 million new building located near the campus of A.T. Still University and the to-be opened dental school. The entire second story of the building houses the health council’s dental clinic with more than five operatory rooms open for expanded dental services and patients.

The wheelchair lift has been in place for about four months and is used for everyday appointments and special consultations.